Block 2019: Drunkard’s Path

Welcome to Block 2019! We’re exploring classic quilt blocks all year, and the fifth block is Drunkard’s Path. Part of the challenge of Block 2019 is to try different techniques and construction methods to grow and hone our skills as quilters. This month’s block is Drunkard’s Path, a traditional, age-old block that features curved piecing. But have no fear! We have a photo tutorial ready to help you tackle those curved seams.

Place a concave piece on top of a convex piece, right sides together, matching the center creases. Pin the center in place. Create the following pairs:

8 coral concave/gray convex

4 gray concave/aqua convex

4 gray concave/dark teal convex

Gently bend the convex shape to match the corner of the concave shape and pin. Repeat on the other corner.

Gently pull at the fabric so the edges of the concave and convex shapes match, pinning as needed.

Sew with the concave side down, at a slow speed. It’s helpful to use a quarter inch foot and set the needle to end in the down position, if possible. Remove the pins as you sew.

Check the seam allowance and the smoothness of the curve and make any desired corrections now. For this small a Quarter Circle unit, I found it helpful to clip the seam. Do what works best for you.

Finger press first to ensure no fabric is left folded into the seam, and then set quickly with an iron. I decided to press towards the concave shape based on how I would like to quilt the block. Press yours as best suits your plan.

Applique Alternative:

If you would rather applique the concave shapes, either turn under the curved seam allowance using the freezer paper method or trim off the seam allowance and fuse applique. Topstitch the concave shape to the 3 1/2″ squares and sew following the block assembly instructions below.

Check back later in the month, when we’ll share ideas for quilting the block.

And you’re all set!

Check back next week for some fun variations on the Drunkard’s Path block. You can always find links to all the Block 2019 posts and see when the next installment is coming out in the main Block 2019 article, just click here.

As you finish your blocks, share them in the AQS Project Parade Facebook group, or use the hashtag #Block2019 and tag us @aqsonline because we can’t wait to see what you do!